A Critical Study of Synesthesia (in Nazik al-Mala'ika's Work)

Abstract

Sensory imagery is the primary source of poetic imagery, and synesthesia is a significant manifestation of realism and sensuality in poetic imagery. Contemporary poets employ synesthesia not only to enhance the aesthetic appeal of their poetry, but also because synesthesia plays a powerful role in embodying the poet's intentions and the impact of expressive phenomena. It is considered a symbolic tool in modern poetry. Nazik al-Mala'ika, the contemporary Iraqi poet, extensively utilized synesthesia in her poetry to express her thoughts and psychological states.

The study concluded that synesthesia manifests in Nazik al-Mala'ika's poetry in various forms, including: blending visual and auditory impressions, blending visual and tactile perceptions, blending visual and olfactory impressions, and blending visual and gustatory senses. Synesthesia served as the most effective expression for the poet, who bore the burdens of life and the society in which she lived, and who possessed a profound sensitivity.